In a landmark event, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot recently unveiled a Braille version of India’s Constitution in Bengaluru, marking a monumental step toward inclusivity. This initiative, which celebrates 75 years of India’s Constitution, aims to empower visually impaired individuals by providing them the autonomy to access their constitutional rights independently.
The Braille-enabled Constitution was developed by Sankara Eye Hospital and CII Young Indians (Yi) Bengaluru, with the goal of breaking barriers and ensuring that all citizens, irrespective of disabilities, have equal access to civic knowledge. For the first time, blind and low-vision individuals can now read and understand their rights and duties without needing assistance from others. This move marks a significant milestone in the journey toward full social inclusion for visually impaired citizens.
Dr. Kaushik Murali, President of Medical Administration at Sankara Eye Foundation India, emphasized the revolutionary nature of the project, noting that it enables individuals to engage with the Constitution as autonomous citizens. The project is set to be expanded across India, with plans to distribute the Braille Constitution to various institutions, ensuring wider accessibility.
Darshan Mutha, National Chair of Accessibility at CII Young Indians, expressed his excitement, highlighting that this initiative will empower visually impaired individuals to live more independently and confidently. He stressed that creating an inclusive world is about ensuring everyone, regardless of their abilities, has the tools they need to thrive.
Anita, Head of Vision Rehabilitation at Sankara Eye Hospital, acknowledged the importance of this effort in closing the gap in access to essential knowledge. While technology has helped many visually impaired individuals gain independence, the ability to engage with important civic information has remained a challenge. The Braille Constitution helps address this gap by giving individuals the independence they deserve to fully participate in the democratic process.
This project is not merely about providing a Braille text; it’s a symbol of empowerment, enabling individuals to understand the very framework of the society they live in. As India continues to work towards creating a more inclusive environment, the Braille Constitution is an essential step forward in ensuring that no citizen is left behind.
By making constitutional knowledge accessible in Braille, India is setting a global example of inclusivity, where every citizen, regardless of visual ability, can understand and uphold their rights and responsibilities.
The Braille Constitution is more than just a book—it is a testament to the country’s commitment to equality, independence, and empowerment for all its citizens. This pioneering effort is a beacon of hope for a future where accessibility and inclusivity are the foundation of society.